Sterling by Music Man Stingray Ray34 - Better than a used EBMM USA Stingray?! - LowEndLobster Review

Ойын-сауық

Looking to snag one of these basses? Use my Reverb affiliate link!- reverb.grsm.io/lowendlobster
Hey everyone! Today we're reviewing the Sterling by MusicMan Stingray Ray34 single humbucker. This is the top of the line single humbucker model from Sterling, and features some features of last-gen USA 'Rays and one big feature of the current-gen USA lineup - a roasted maple neck! Is this a better deal than a second hand pre-facelift '17 USA Ernie Ball MusicMan Stingray? Let's find out!
Big thanks to Dom @ ThirdFloorGuitars for setting up my instruments. You can find him at www.thirdfloorguitars.com
Discord: discord.gg/dzrFMzD
Facebook: LowEndLobster
Twitter: @LowEndLobster
Instagram: LowEndLobster
Reverb: reverb.com/shop/lowendlobster

Пікірлер: 655

  • @trevormacdonald5110
    @trevormacdonald51103 жыл бұрын

    Can we just take a minute to appreciate how much Lobster communicates with his fans. Almost every comment has a heart, and a reply. Even if it's just a thanks, the interaction from this channel makes it one of, if not my favourite for bass content

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Aw thanks man! I appreciate everyone taking the time to watch and comment. :)

  • @russellzauner

    @russellzauner

    3 жыл бұрын

    it'll change when he hits 10k subs. It's taking a while because some people are allergic to shellfish and it's causing them cognitive dissonance. But unless they're well prepared/experienced everyone hits a saturation point or two when they get sub bumps/spikes or just a hard ramp because there was a viral period of a few days. See: Riot Tourism and Amateur Livestreamers trying to scale OBS when it really won't lol

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    LOL

  • @daltonbell2907

    @daltonbell2907

    3 жыл бұрын

    I told you already Mr lobster, you will go down as the best bass reviewer simply because you communicate with your fans.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@daltonbell2907 Aw thanks man :)

  • @polo_bgu2357
    @polo_bgu2357 Жыл бұрын

    There is nothing like your videos, very complete and the enjoy that you put on it, thanks for share your awesome videos and your love for the basses!! I think i'll probably get one of these Sterling Ray 34, these video convince me at all. Gracias totales maestro!

  • @DWdawgable
    @DWdawgable2 жыл бұрын

    Man... Your videos have quickly become my favorite gear review videos of all time. You're a great player and a great tech. Aaaand... you are the only one I know of who keeps it straight forward and unbiased, no BS. I appreciate what ya do. Ya made me need to try out a ray34. Keep doing what you do!

  • @elmaiquillol
    @elmaiquillol3 ай бұрын

    Best demo and review of this bass series in KZread hands down! Thank you!

  • @Novataro
    @Novataro3 жыл бұрын

    I have a Ray34 and I never thought of putting the EQ all the way down as a starting point. It actually really opens up the voicing options. Thanks for the video!

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching :). Glad you enjoyed it!

  • @honkytonkinson9787

    @honkytonkinson9787

    3 жыл бұрын

    I've got an Ibanez bass with the three band and I tend to keep the EQ turned up kinda high. My SUB I keep turned down quite a bit cause it's so hot. It's a very different bass than anything else I've played; my two other basses are basically a passive P bass and an active J bass

  • @user-mb5qk7gd5i

    @user-mb5qk7gd5i

    4 ай бұрын

    Yeah, that's why it's only a starting point.

  • @arbdistress5592
    @arbdistress55926 ай бұрын

    Thanks to pointing out the QC issues and the weights. Usually these are overlooked factors when watching reviews on youtube since the appearance and tone are so similar.

  • @carriermonkey4821
    @carriermonkey48213 жыл бұрын

    Sorting out all the stingrays is very helpful Lobster thank you for doing this .

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks John! Glad you find these vids helpful :)

  • @theologian83
    @theologian832 жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much for this review LowEnd Lobster. Your informed, detailed review of this Ray 34 Bass, and the very detailed and informed video where you compare this to the Ray 24 and the American made Sting Ray bass. I bought the Ray 34 based on this video and haven’t looked back. Yes it’s a bit heavy, but I can tell it’s very well made, plays amazing, and has very versatile tone shaping abilities. You are what makes KZread awesome!

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you very much! I'm so glad my videos helped you :)

  • @Reddissleepingg
    @Reddissleepingg6 ай бұрын

    I bought this same bass after I saw your video 3 years ago. Since then, it's traveled all over the US and played many many shows. Thanks for your in depth review!

  • @chriswenkle2635
    @chriswenkle26353 жыл бұрын

    Your videos are just plain fun to watch - and the reviews give plenty of info for us bass players suffering from G.A.S.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Chris! Glad you're enjoying them :)

  • @donaldswan1587
    @donaldswan15878 ай бұрын

    You just improved my life! How? Well I don't even have one of these, but a Vintage copy (which for it's rediculously low price is a truly wonderful bass), but the mindset you suggested from Sterling Ball, of starting from pre-amp right down and working from there, gave me instantly improved tones, so thank you for passing on that gem!

  • @wilfredovazquez2942
    @wilfredovazquez29423 жыл бұрын

    Awesome review. Both are close on the sound. I'm thinking about buy one of those Sterlings now, thanks to you. Greetings from Puerto Rico.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you Wilfredo!

  • @ratherbe7
    @ratherbe73 жыл бұрын

    Great review! Bought this same model last year and it rocks! Going to add either the HH model or short scale by years end.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks! Great to hear :).

  • @rondeakin8876
    @rondeakin88763 жыл бұрын

    Brilliant !,this Guy does amazing reviews !

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Ron!

  • @OmegaRectum
    @OmegaRectum3 жыл бұрын

    Hey Lobster I just wanted to revisit this video to let you know that I bought this exact bass after watching your review, it's been almost 2 months and every time I pick it up, I fall in love with it again. Thanks again for your review and demo!

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Tibsahoy! That means a lot :) So glad you're enjoying the bass

  • @temperedOath

    @temperedOath

    Жыл бұрын

    Yeah here too. It’s friggen awesome.

  • @user-gj3pf8jo6z
    @user-gj3pf8jo6z4 ай бұрын

    Great review Thank You!

  • @lookingatyouforever
    @lookingatyouforever3 жыл бұрын

    0:51 The top of the line Ray34 is cute as hell....Love that tortoise coat! Thanks for reviewing it. I've decided to get one and care for it for the rest of my life. SPCA, here I come!

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    HAH! This made my night. Cats rule haha

  • @degeest5571
    @degeest55713 жыл бұрын

    I just bought the bass that you show here, very impressed. It feels a lot like a 70’s SR I played years ago. It has that MM sizzle. Love it.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks! Congrats on your new bass! They really nailed it with the Ray 34/5

  • @jamessadler3623
    @jamessadler36233 жыл бұрын

    I purchased the exact model used in this demo, and I must say I am very impressed with it.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! Glad you're enjoying it :)

  • @kevmac1230
    @kevmac12302 жыл бұрын

    Good job as always.

  • @oliverEtxe
    @oliverEtxe3 жыл бұрын

    Great video! A lot of tones and very nice phrasing. I have a 2015 Ray 35CA now discontinued. It’s my favorite bass, only two bands EQ. The construction and the sound are very impressive for the price.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Oliver! I'd love to check out one of the 34/35CAs, enjoy yours in health and happiness :)

  • @samlelowitch
    @samlelowitch3 жыл бұрын

    @LowEndLobster Really enjoying the channel! You make a persuasive case for the Ray34 as it sure does sound good in the video. I personally think the hype around roasted maple seems generally well justified. It looks great, feels nice, and seems to contribute to good bass tone. Your description of Sterling Ball’s suggestion to start with everything off was intriguing. I’ll have to try that.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Sam! So glad you enjoyed it :)

  • @stainless641
    @stainless6413 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the great review. Always like to hear how much low end thump a bass has before it gets too woolly, but most reviewers never show this. Everyone else cranks the highs and slaps which really gets annoying. As a bass player I always want to hear the tonal range, so again thank you.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    My pleasure! That's what I'm shooting for. I want the bass to speak for itself, but give my own opinions on things as well. My opinions are my own, but I always hope the bass will do a lot of the talking for me. Thanks for watching and commenting :)

  • @b.ohlenschlager8985
    @b.ohlenschlager89858 ай бұрын

    Thank you for your reviews. I am looking after a new budget bass with the real growl. It is you leading me through this process. Sorry about my english, i am german.

  • @DTaylorGuitars
    @DTaylorGuitars3 жыл бұрын

    Wonderful sound and it looks fantastic!

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @FoamSquatch
    @FoamSquatch2 жыл бұрын

    Came back to watch this again. Thinking about getting one of the Ash/trans black and white grain versions of this. I couldn't like the video a second time, so I wanted to at least give you a comment for all the work you put into informing the Bass community.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you Basturd! Interesting timing, the full review of the Ray34 Ash Black edition is coming out tomorrow :).

  • @FoamSquatch

    @FoamSquatch

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@LowEndLobster perfect!!!!

  • @jonhill783
    @jonhill7833 жыл бұрын

    Great video. Love the roasted neck. Think its gonna be my next bass

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Jon!

  • @rolandhauke964
    @rolandhauke9642 жыл бұрын

    Thank you Lobster, your videos made the decision to buy a Ray34 HH MN and a Ray34 PB. The best decision, I haven't regretted it for a day.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you Roland! Great to hear :)

  • @liohrt
    @liohrt Жыл бұрын

    At 11:00, that's probably the best advice you can give to anyone starting with a Stingray, especially the special edition. I own a Special 5 HH and the preamp (especially the bass knob!) is just crazy. In most cases, Bass at 50% (so the theoretical neutral position) is already more than enough. It drove me crazy back in the day when I first bought this bass, and lowering the pickups don't solve completely the "problem", the sound can quickly become too boomy. So starting at 0% and increasing slowly the bass is how I finally got the right amount for all the pickups configurations

  • @davestreet7191
    @davestreet71913 жыл бұрын

    I like your reviews..thank you for posting.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Dave!

  • @Thudmunky
    @Thudmunky3 жыл бұрын

    I got one of these bad boys earlier in the year, and all the points you mentioned are the same as mine. My biggest bugbear is the weight, but on a strap it balances well and the tones are to die for. Great video again lobster 🦞🔥🤘

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! Great to hear :)

  • @RumblinMan
    @RumblinMan3 жыл бұрын

    Man, really nice sound on that Sterling.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks man!

  • @blackaccordlx
    @blackaccordlx3 жыл бұрын

    Sterling really has come a long way. I dig it!

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    They really have! They took off where OLP crashed and burned.

  • @Below-Average_Joe
    @Below-Average_Joe3 жыл бұрын

    Great review, Lobster! You really click with Stingray style basses.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! They're my latest obsession. Can't get enough of em. I have a FEVAH and the only cure is MORE STINGRAY!

  • @rinaldiankingz
    @rinaldiankingz3 жыл бұрын

    Few days ago i saw you wearing choco merch and now you are wearing Nurburgring shirt, which is one of my favorite tracks since Gran Turismo 4 era. Man, i love racing as well.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Awesome! Yeah man, I love me some gaming and cars. I actually got the shirt at the 'Ring back in 2011. I did Euro Delivery of a BMW 3-series and did two laps. Fun and scary! I had previously only driven the ring drunk while in college in Forza hahaha. Sober and in person was very different!

  • @Brotesque89
    @Brotesque893 жыл бұрын

    That's the one I bought in May! Love that bass.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Awesome! Thanks Mitchell :)

  • @robertkerr9738
    @robertkerr97383 жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much for this video. I played one yesterday and was blown away. I’m seriously considering buying it and it’s good to get some confirmation that you share my assessment that this is a great bass and that I’m not crazy! Or, well, we’re crazy together?

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    I'm not crazy! *stares at lobster claw*... I swear! ;P You're very welcome, Robert! Glad that you found my findings accurate :)

  • @RayRay-vv7fw
    @RayRay-vv7fw3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the quick response and feedback Lobster! Appreciate it!

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    You got it! Always appreciate questions and feedback!

  • @shoyale
    @shoyale3 жыл бұрын

    Your videos are amazing! You convinced me to buy this bass! Best wishes from Germany nearby Nürburgring ;)

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you Alex! I visited Germany and the 'Ring 9 years ago and I hope to do it again :).

  • @shoyale

    @shoyale

    3 жыл бұрын

    ​@@LowEndLobster Let me know if you are around! Would love to meet up for a jam session :) keep it up! Cheers

  • @Idontlikethisever
    @Idontlikethisever3 жыл бұрын

    You always sound amazing

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! I really appreciate that :)

  • @plague_doctor666
    @plague_doctor6669 ай бұрын

    Looking at getting one and this has helped out, cheers.

  • @user-mb5qk7gd5i

    @user-mb5qk7gd5i

    4 ай бұрын

    Play one first and get one that was built and set up right. I did, abd never looked back.

  • @Dalfarrito
    @Dalfarrito3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you lobster for making us discover this great instrument! The sound difference between these two are very slight nuances - to my ears at least - . GAS activated haha

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    So glad you enjoyed the vid :)

  • @twinplane8735
    @twinplane87353 жыл бұрын

    I wanted to buy a Sterling Shirt scale Bass,nur after watching this Video of the Ray 34 i Fell in Love with that Bass and Yesterday i bought a Seconds Hand Ray 34 for little money and it's absolutely amazing! Thanks Lobster!!!

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    You're welcome and congrats!

  • @ThePunkDit
    @ThePunkDit3 жыл бұрын

    Awesome video! I bought one of these a month ago and its absolute eye candy with that roasted maple neck. I had a sterling sub4 and found the neck to be super thin and really easy to play on but this one feels like a bigger c shape. I've gotten used to it and the tone is killer!

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Nice! Yeah the necks between this and the SUB are very different, but are enjoyable in their own way. Love the roasties though. Enjoy em!

  • @reubenkinsey2947
    @reubenkinsey2947 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks, love all of your video's, as a Bass player to another sounds great 🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸

  • @bassbutter4767
    @bassbutter476710 ай бұрын

    Great and informative video! I really dug the side by side tests as opposed to 3 minutes on 1 bass & 3 minutes on the other one . On the first 2 side by side test, I thought that the Sterling sounded better and Fulle. The last test I thought that it was a tie. I finally came to the realizasian 2 weeks ago that Music Man & Sterling are my favorite bass guitars! They have a look, the feel and definitely the sound that stomps out all other basses no matter what the price… no matter what the price!!! I'm purchasing a Sterling 35HH in Daphne blue tomorrow! Can't wait!!😊😁🎶🎶

  • @jameshouchin5086
    @jameshouchin50863 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the feedback on the neck!

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    No problem! :)

  • @NelsonMontana1234
    @NelsonMontana1234 Жыл бұрын

    I played a StingRay for years until the frets became so worn, they needed replacing -- which often doesn't work out all that well, so I went shopping for a new one. I came across the Ray 34 and was so impressed, I sold my old Sting Ray and used the money to buy a new Sterling Ray and had money left over. For all intents and purposes it's the same bass. By the way -- on natural wood finishes the wood of choice is usually Northern Ash -- which tends to be heavy. My Ray with a honey burst finish is 8 lbs.

  • @goozrat
    @goozrat3 жыл бұрын

    holy cow the mids sound so friggin good! it's so close to that john deacon sound! excellent review!

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Francisco!

  • @alesstysanchez1614
    @alesstysanchez161423 күн бұрын

    Nice I just picked up one of these bad boys yesterday. You can feel by the weight that the construction is solid. A bit heavy but the equals tone

  • @hodaridaniels8786
    @hodaridaniels87863 жыл бұрын

    Nice looking and sounding bass

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Hodari!

  • @Spaceman-mm6od
    @Spaceman-mm6od3 жыл бұрын

    Saw this beautiful Sterling Ray34 Ash in the shop 2 weeks and fell in love with it, however it costs $1200 here (europe) :-(. I am in the look for used ones in Reverb but could not find any. Anyway, very nice video! I never got bored in the whole 19mins of it. Very good explanation and bass comparison!

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you Spaceman! :)

  • @Spaceman-mm6od

    @Spaceman-mm6od

    3 жыл бұрын

    Finally pulled the trigger on this (costs $1100 though) but man this sounds so awesooome

  • @violetgumibear
    @violetgumibear2 жыл бұрын

    Picked up a new one of these for $400, bless up, it just sounds so amazing, and exactly what I've been looking for.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    2 жыл бұрын

    Congrats! That's a steal

  • @keithpasculli7465
    @keithpasculli74653 жыл бұрын

    Sounds like a Ray to me. I had an older model ray 34 with a killer blue sparkle finish and a white pearloid pickguard and I thought that it sounded absolutely great. To my ear the US Ray had maybe a little more bite but the Sterling had a nice full tone.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Keith! Agreed, the tone is very similar but there are very subtle differences.

  • @BrendanOriginal
    @BrendanOriginal Жыл бұрын

    Dude I love your shirt!!!

  • @jmichaellee
    @jmichaellee3 жыл бұрын

    Great videos, Lobster. (And I'm from Nova Scotia where we know a thing or two about crustaceans!) Thanks to you I've found one of these on sale at Musician's Friend and am buying it today. I've enjoyed all of your videos that I've watched so far-including all the MusicMan videos more than once before reaching this decision. I'd echo a comment from below on a bit of pick playing. Best, Mike

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Mike! I've started to use a pick more in my newer videos and will definitely revisit some of my 'Rays with a new perspective down the line :)

  • @jmichaellee

    @jmichaellee

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@LowEndLobster Thanks! I slap very little but pick a good deal, so that's really helpful. Much appreciated!

  • @jaydoode15
    @jaydoode152 жыл бұрын

    Hey thanks for the great content. I watched your reviews on many of the Sterling basses. Just got this bass and out of the box it feels great, it is setup much better than the Fender Player P I got, the strings are much better quality than the cheap Fender ones on the P as well. While the Ray34 cost a little more it did come with a nice padded gig bag which is a nice addition. Feels great to play, slaps like a dream and has that sweet Stingray tone that I've wanted for so long!

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Jay! Congrats on the Ray :)

  • @diegoesaufranco3257

    @diegoesaufranco3257

    7 ай бұрын

    Hi man, I saw in other vids that some people have issues with the tunners or the truss rod, do you have any issues with that?

  • @jaydoode15

    @jaydoode15

    7 ай бұрын

    @diegoesaufranco3257 yeah the truss rudd barely turns and the tuning gears tend to get stuck and grind, but other than that the bass still stays in tune with good strings and sounds great!

  • @philipmcadam5339
    @philipmcadam53392 жыл бұрын

    Nice looking bass that sounds great. The USA built Stingray sounded bigger, bassier to me when I listened without looking. Thanks for the review, Lobster.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Philip!

  • @MusicZtorm
    @MusicZtorm3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for this review ! ( especialy for the comparison with the us model ! ) . I’ve checked the weight of a classic stingray : around 10.5 lbs ;) not too far !

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    So glad you enjoyed this! My classic ray is 10 lbs on the money, and the Smoothie is 9.2. The classic isn't too far off, but the slight increase in heft is noticeable (though not a deal breaker for me IMO.. over 11 LBs would be another story haha)

  • @CatalystOfFire
    @CatalystOfFire5 ай бұрын

    Had a black on black Ray35 with the humbucker series/parallel/tap switch on it... And it ruled. It was like $900 and worth every penny.

  • @ft6755
    @ft67553 жыл бұрын

    Great video! I've got a Sterling SB14 that I got new about 12 years ago, I'm not quite sure where this model fits in the current Sterling/Stingray lineup, but I remember it being around £700 back then, so probably bridged the gap between a Sterling and a Stingray. Great bass, not quite as versatile as I would like it to be but fantastic tones for funk and amazing for slap.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks FT! Ah, the SB14. I have an SB4 here that I plan on making some videos on and modding. What you have is essentially the Sterling by Music Man version of the Ernie Ball Music Man Sterling, a model separate to the stingray. The SB14 is an excellent bass which was unfortunately discontinued. Hold onto it, they're really cool!

  • @seanparry2k8

    @seanparry2k8

    3 жыл бұрын

    I bought a sb14 10 years ago for £540 new. Such a shame they discontinued it.

  • @Nerotique
    @Nerotique3 жыл бұрын

    Jatoba huh? Does that mean if you see the fretboard, you become a Jatoba's witness? I'll see myself out.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    LOL ;P

  • @josensototorres7070
    @josensototorres70703 жыл бұрын

    Great video!!!! To me the USA sounds a little little clear, but not twice. I own a Ray 35 and I love it. Maybe the USA are more polished but to me they don’t sound twice as good. I appreciate this video. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼🇵🇷

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Jose :)

  • @hodshonf
    @hodshonf Жыл бұрын

    my Ray34 is 9.4 pounds. keeper!

  • @rubenriverarojas7910
    @rubenriverarojas79103 жыл бұрын

    I really love the powerful sound Stingray basses have

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Ruben! Me too :)

  • @alexshepherd4705
    @alexshepherd47053 жыл бұрын

    I have had mine since 9/2019. Same exact model, except mine only weighs 9.75 lbs. The roasted maple neck is amazing. A couple of drops of fret oil rubbed into the back of the neck really made a difference. I got annoyed with the output jack not always working with certain cords (import issue). Then I installed a Switchcraft - problem solved. It sounds and plays like a broken in Stingray. I finally don't miss my USA stingray anymore. Its that close.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing, Alex!

  • @adammadtin8451
    @adammadtin8451Ай бұрын

    I picked up a used ray 34 about a year ago and I can’t believe how good it plays and sounds. Is very heavy though.

  • @pwhite102
    @pwhite1023 жыл бұрын

    it sounded pretty good with everything down. Really interesting.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Patrick!

  • @jmichaellee
    @jmichaellee3 жыл бұрын

    Mine arrived today. Sounds terrific and plays great after an hour or so of filing fret ends. It sounds more like a proper Stingray than my old MusicMan HH every did. But oooh Lordie...11.25 lbs!!

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Congrats! Wowzers that's a big bass haha. Enjoy!

  • @lowqualityguitarvideos
    @lowqualityguitarvideos3 жыл бұрын

    this sounds great.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks man!

  • @rattmann3170
    @rattmann31703 жыл бұрын

    Great job Music Man! Yamaha has been doing thumb rest pickups for years. They also have an active passive switch and battery indicator light on the back of the bass. That would be something else great to copy from Yamaha.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Ratt Mann! Great comment, I agree those little innovative touches can add a lot of value.

  • @mitchellbruce6256
    @mitchellbruce62563 жыл бұрын

    Dope shirt 👌

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks! I got it at the ring :)

  • @jerryllucassr6557
    @jerryllucassr65573 жыл бұрын

    I developed the great desire for a Music Man Sting Ray but since I didn't have a lot of money I found a deal on a new Sterling Ray34 with an ash body and roasted maple neck, just like the one you tested. The sound is vastly different from my Fender Jazz Basses and my G&L JB2, at least to me. It kind of feels like a Precision Bass on steroids or coke or something. The neck is almost chunky to me but smooth, especially after I took some Scotchbrite and went over the back of the neck a few times. The pickup and electronics are still showing me new sounds and tones. It seems like a fairly well made instrument. It plays well and feels good, especially after I put on a set of D'Addario ECB80 light gauge flat wound strings, almost like a different bass. I'm still getting used to the bass and so far I like it a lot. The sound, to me, is clearer and cleaner than my other basses and cuts through the mix very well. This old dog has quite a bit to learn with this new "bone", but it's growing on me. It is a bit weighty but not like those old Peavey T40 basses or a couple of 70's Fender Precision Basses made out of the heaviest ash they could find. Thanks for your review it helped. I still don't like the gig bag with which it came.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Jerry! congrats on the new bass. The Stingray is definitely a different beast from the J's that you're used to, and the Ray34 is a great example that hits very very close to the pre-facelift US 'Ray! Enjoy exploring all that it has to offer :)

  • @davegiard2221
    @davegiard22212 жыл бұрын

    Just got a RAY34PB and it is AMAZING. Only complaint I have are that the bushing for the tuners came loose from the factory. Since it is press fit there isnt much you can do, will need to upgrade them for sure but it still holds tuning like nobodies business. Great bass.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    2 жыл бұрын

    Awesome! Congrats! Enjoy it :)

  • @danschneider9921

    @danschneider9921

    2 жыл бұрын

    I want to as well. My only issue with mine as well. Hoping someone has some suggestions as to which models/brands work

  • @user-mb5qk7gd5i
    @user-mb5qk7gd5i11 ай бұрын

    I just picked up a new firemist silver ray34 after watching your review. Yet to plug into my markbass amp as I can't play where I live but using headphones. Loving the tones. Learning to master the tones and eqs. I did t-one oil the neck and headstock. Boy o boy rich chocolate color. Looks great. My bandmates will flip.

  • @diegoesaufranco3257

    @diegoesaufranco3257

    7 ай бұрын

    Hi man, I saw in other vids that some people have issues with the tunners or the truss rod, do you have any issues with that?

  • @user-mb5qk7gd5i

    @user-mb5qk7gd5i

    4 ай бұрын

    ​@diegoesaufranco3257 not as of yet, but have some concern. I let a pro guy set it up and stays in tune long after playing. As I've seen, play one first and get one that is good quality. I've seen some "abused" for lack, that wouldn't be worth it, but find a good one, and you'll be impressed.

  • @VeitLehmann
    @VeitLehmann10 ай бұрын

    The two really sound pretty much the same to me. So definitely a really great option! Now they went up in price new, but they are also very easy to find on the used market, and there have been a lot of different colors available by now. And on top, there's the 5-string version, and both with one or two humbuckers. Sadly, my favorite pickup combination, H/S, has never been released. But if I had to choose, It would be the Sterling Ray35HH.

  • @suprbird
    @suprbird2 жыл бұрын

    I bought a stingray sub model the newer one and the neck is just too thin. I had one of these basses the ash black edition with the clear pickguard but sold it due to its weight. But they sound and play so good and I missed mine so much that I just snagged one up in Neptune Blue Satin. As always, thanks for the great review!

  • @rockandrollisyourmom
    @rockandrollisyourmom Жыл бұрын

    I bought one too. Thanks!

  • @oskarus3
    @oskarus33 жыл бұрын

    I remember Sterling Ball once said about Bongo bass, that you should start with volume in the middle. I think that it may be also applied to Stingray - that way you are less likely to overdrive your preamp.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    I had my focusrite a little too high on this, but that's not a bad idea. I like his control philosophies

  • @YvesBelliveau
    @YvesBelliveau3 жыл бұрын

    Wow, zoom-out shot... production quality's getting up there, Lobster ;) Edit: Little did I know where the video would end up going. Talking basses??? lmao

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! Yeah I'm a weirdo ;P

  • @danielarcaris8965
    @danielarcaris89653 жыл бұрын

    I would and have chosen the Ray34. Got it new for $500 at guitar center on black friday special.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Nice! That's a killer price

  • @stickplayer2
    @stickplayer2 Жыл бұрын

    I've got the EB Stingray, HH 5 string, from 2003. I have to say, that final sound comparison section was convincing -- with eyes closed, I can't tell any appreciable difference in the samples you played. You mention the 11+ pound weight. My 2003 is exactly 10.

  • @wayneroy6694
    @wayneroy6694 Жыл бұрын

    I was wanting a Sting Ray to round out my stable. But I couldn't swing the money. But the Sterlings that my GC carries all have tiny broomstick necks. I found one of these because I heard it had the bigger 'legitimate Ray' neck. And for way less money. Mine is a beast.

  • @Jozef_Drab
    @Jozef_Drab Жыл бұрын

    Few years ago I sold my US Stingray cause I thought I would finish playing (too many hobbies). But never say never. Now I have started again, of course, and I am so sad I sold it and for ridiculous price. So after watching your review I guess I will buy Ray34. Thanks for inspiration ;)).

  • @ChipsA17
    @ChipsA173 жыл бұрын

    So i just got mine in ash black. Amazing for the price. Mine does need a set up and the strings that came with mine were junky busy that expected with factory stuff. So a set up and new strings and it will be perfect.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Awesome :) Congrats!

  • @joshuapaaske3043
    @joshuapaaske30433 жыл бұрын

    I'd love to see you cover a made in usa sterling!

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    I love those! I really want a 5

  • @iamgribs
    @iamgribs2 жыл бұрын

    I like the look of the neck too.

  • @notwerkinginthishouse8634
    @notwerkinginthishouse86343 жыл бұрын

    Great sound for me to fall asleep

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Dream a dream of many basses :)

  • @XVIIIIVMCMLXII
    @XVIIIIVMCMLXII6 ай бұрын

    great video and great bass ...by the way I have the Sterling

  • @fredd036
    @fredd0363 жыл бұрын

    I just bought a Ray34 on sale for Black Friday and I love it. In this video, it seems like the American StingRay had more high end and sounded a little more clearer. I only heard it on my phone though

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Freddy! The differences are very slight but are there, however I think a lot of those would diminish further when playing in a band setting. The Ray34 is a great value (especially on sale!)

  • @michaelblaney4461

    @michaelblaney4461

    3 жыл бұрын

    I bought one on the black Friday too, not the type of bass I usually go for . but I really like it

  • @logun.watkins
    @logun.watkins3 жыл бұрын

    Love the sterling instruments. You seem to like a lot of humbucker Basses, I’d like to hear you play and your thoughts on the G&L kiloton and tribute models.

  • @logun.watkins

    @logun.watkins

    3 жыл бұрын

    Also you should get your hands on a dimension bass!

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Great suggestions! Both are on my radar :)

  • @milosmajinovic8034
    @milosmajinovic8034 Жыл бұрын

    Just wanna tell u i started form your 1st video, and I'm going to the end 😁😁😁

  • @KWx808
    @KWx808 Жыл бұрын

    I want this so badddd!

  • @hatzili1272
    @hatzili12723 жыл бұрын

    love the Nürburgring shirt

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Hatzili! The 'ring is a magical place

  • @JAYZIGGY5
    @JAYZIGGY5 Жыл бұрын

    I just got one of these in a very dark teal finish and it looks and plays great. Although not my first choice of color it was the stupid deal of the day on musicians friend at 599 and I couldn't pass it up. My only gripes so far are the treble, wow. It is overpowering. At 50% or flat I guess is about as far as I can turn it up or it's just way too much and I like a lot of treble on stingrays. The other would be the black dots on the roasted maple neck. I practice in a low-ish light room and I almost can't see them at all. I wish those were white. I need to spend my time with it to really see how much I like it or not but still at 599... I'd say I got a deal.

  • @randomguy5598
    @randomguy55982 жыл бұрын

    Insightful video. I was wondering if the baseline you played at 2:31 was improv or from an actual song because I really liked the groove of it

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you Random Guy! That bassline is a little groove I came up with, I've used it in a few videos but it's just something I made up

  • @phil-good
    @phil-good6 ай бұрын

    I have always been told the heavier …. The better 😁 On the favorite setup the US model seemed a bit more mellow and The Sterling one more bite with a bit more mid range but still deep on the bass side. The other setup was very similar ! I got the black Ash with the white grains and looks and sounds really great !!

  • @andrewbecker3700
    @andrewbecker37002 жыл бұрын

    They've gone up to $899 now, but I'd just grabbed a B stock in firemist silver for $749 a mere week before all the price hikes! I have a matching Cutlass CT50 HSS and after awhile the finish on the necks have gotten much smoother once played in. They're both great and cant be beat for the price.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    2 жыл бұрын

    Wow! Thanks for the update.

  • @user-mb5qk7gd5i

    @user-mb5qk7gd5i

    5 ай бұрын

    Me too a firemist and I love it more each time I play it.

  • @andrewbecker3700

    @andrewbecker3700

    5 ай бұрын

    @@user-mb5qk7gd5i It's a really hard color to lay down perfectly. The new colors have bigger and more metal flake. Teal almost. Firemist silver reminds me of Corvettes from the mid 70's. Just the right balance of blue and silver.

  • @goodtimes12342
    @goodtimes123422 жыл бұрын

    great review! The USA has a bit more of that stingray sizzle and EQ separation. But none of that makes a lick of difference in the mix!

  • @thiagodeandradeneves4585
    @thiagodeandradeneves45853 жыл бұрын

    My main bass. I love it. Would love to hear it with different preamps.

  • @LowEndLobster

    @LowEndLobster

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Thiago! Though I won't be modifying this bass, I have modified an SUB (with a second mod coming VERY soon). What kind of preamp would you like to see?

  • @thiagodeandradeneves4585

    @thiagodeandradeneves4585

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@LowEndLobster Yeah, I'm following the SUBs series. There's a video here in youtube where a guy called Kleber shows his EBMM Ray with Seymour Duncan pickup and preamp which I like very much, sounds so good and still very true to the MM sound.

Келесі